Project-based writing puts a spin on project-based learning, which is the act of learning through identifying a real-world problem and developing its solution. Project-based writing activities are differentiated and cross-curricular. It argues that any subject — be it language arts or STEM — can benefit from strong writing practice. Any genre of writing can support the other. And any engaging activity that links academic learning to the real world can be a 21st-century tool. Here are the top 10 reason to teach project-based writing in your classroom:
- It is an organic way to integrate all core subjects — math, science, history, and language arts.
- Project-based writing proves to students that imagination and creativity are connected to research and expository writing.
- It hits all the major elements of the higher levels of Bloom’s™ Taxonomy: Analysis, Evaluation and Creation.
- By allowing students to choose their format of showing what they know, the buy-in for the quality of the final project is tremendous.
- Students develop projects that are individualized, unique, and specific from each other.
- Project-Based Writing is a powerful way to incorporate all multiple intelligences: visual, verbal, logical, musical, physical, social, solitary, and naturalistic.
- It desegregates nonfiction and fiction, blending the two.
- It integrates the core subjects with non-core subjects, potentially using technology, art, music, etc.
- Project-based writing is a rigorous assessment requiring high levels of thought and communication.
- It requires use of the entire writing process — from brainstorming to revising, editing, and completing the final draft — regardless of the genres picked and the topic chosen.
For more activities see Project-Based Writing